On July 15, the Manchester Evening News published an article stating that Menu's zero appearances in the World Cup were actually good news for the player and Manchester United.
The Manchester Evening News analysis noted that Menou had put in tremendous effort to be included in England's World Cup squad, but has yet to receive a single minute of playing time. He, along with Trevor Chalobah and Ivan Toney, are the only three off-field players in the England squad who have not yet played in the World Cup.
What's even more puzzling is that when deciding on his midfield options, Tuchel gave playing time to 36-year-old Henderson and makeshift right-back Reece James, instead of Menu.
There were opportunities to bring on Menu during the group stage. In England's 0-0 draw against Ghana, a player like Menu was desperately needed in the second half to control the tempo, but Tuchel brought on Henderson in the final stages instead.
Henderson returned to the Premier League last year from Ajax and Daman, joining Brentford. His inclusion in the England squad was already surprising, so when Tuchel chose him instead of Menu, it left many puzzled.
The situation worsened in the quarter-final against Norway – Tuchel once again fielded Reece James in midfield. The Chelsea full-back, who had missed the group stage match against Ghana due to a hamstring injury, made his first substitute appearance since returning from injury, immediately playing in the center. Tuchel explained the decision by saying, "We put Reece James in the number 6 position, which freed up Elliott Anderson to play the number 8, and Bellingham to return to the number 10 position."
Of course, making difficult decisions is Tuchel's job. But even the most die-hard Liverpool or Manchester City fans wouldn't choose Henderson or Reece James to replace Menu in midfield. Unless Menu performs poorly in training or there are problems in the dressing room, there's no justification for Tuchel's personnel choices. And based on past experience, Menu simply isn't that kind of player.
Even when he wasn't getting playing time under Amorim, Menu's dedication in training remained unwavering. On the contrary, he doubled his efforts, trying to change Amorim's mind.
When announcing the squad before the World Cup, Tuchel hinted at giving Menou a role. However, Menou's most recent appearance was only after a match when he sang "The Wall of Miracles" with his teammates. Considering England has entered the crucial knockout stages, it's highly unlikely Menou will get another chance to play – how could Tuchel possibly field a player he's never used before in the group stage or final?
Manchester United fans questioned Tuchel's decision as entirely reasonable, but on the other hand, it at least greatly reduced the risk of Menu getting injured before the new season and ensured that he could be in the best condition for the 2026-27 season after a rest.
Missing out on the World Cup has had no impact on Menou's status at Manchester United. Carrick knows better than anyone what this academy graduate can contribute. For Menou, missing out on World Cup playing time is certainly a disappointment – after all, he set his sights on being included in the World Cup squad after his appearance at Euro 2024 – but he has experienced far more difficult times in his career, such as Amorim's situation during the first half of his tenure at Manchester United.
Reflecting on the first half of the 2025-26 season, Maynoo, in an interview with English journalists in the United States, said: "That period was indeed very difficult. But I tried to focus on the present, persevere day by day, continue to hone my skills, and give my all for the team. I believed everything would be alright. Thank God, it was." When asked if he should thank Carrick for helping him get selected for the World Cup squad, he said: "Of course. I told him I was extremely grateful. If it weren't for him giving me playing time, I wouldn't be standing here at all. I will always be grateful to him."
Even without playing, Menou is still a member of the England team. If the Three Lions can end their 60-year wait, he too can win a championship medal. Although his situation is somewhat strange—the players ahead of him in the rankings are not entirely reasonable—the 21-year-old still has plenty of opportunities to participate in more international competitions, and next year, he will play a key role at Manchester United.
